Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche has praised Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi for his vital contribution in their 3-1 Premier League victory over Leeds United at the City Ground on Sunday.
Awoniyi came off the bench in the 59th minute to replace Igor Jesus and made an immediate impact, helping Forest secure their first home win since Dyche took charge of the team.
In his post-match interview with Premier League Productions, Dyche spoke highly of the 28-year-old forward and acknowledged his improved attitude and performance.
“Tee [Taiwo Awoniyi] was excellent,” Dyche said. “Tee seemed a little bit lost when we got here, but he knows he’s got a part to play for us. I thought he was excellent.”
Awoniyi had endured a tough start to the season, struggling for minutes and missing out on Nottingham Forest’s UEFA Europa League squad. However, since Dyche’s arrival, the Nigerian international has shown signs of revival, featuring in three league matches and totalling 88 minutes of action.
His earlier dip in form also saw him left out of Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon, but his recent performances could put him back in contention for a national team recall ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
With growing confidence under Dyche’s guidance, Awoniyi will be hoping to build on his momentum and play a more consistent role in Forest’s campaign.